Is There a Time When Casual Sex Is Good for Your Mental Health?

For readers aged 18 and up only.

Note: Since it was first published, this article has been revised.

This piece received a lot of feedback, which was a great reminder of how crucial it is to be considerate of the many experiences and viewpoints of our readers.

This page aims to educate readers about the negative effects of sexual stigma and shame on one's mental health as well as the potential advantages of sexual engagement, even though there are risks involved and not everyone should explore their sexuality. We always want to support you in making decisions that are best for your physical and mental health and are safe, responsible, and educated.

If you're looking for casual sex in 2019, you may probably find it more readily than before. There is no shortage of people eager to get laid...no strings attached, given the option of meeting potential mates both in person and on a variety of dating websites and apps.

People bemoan the mental toll that the hookup culture has on them, particularly the lack of commitment and emotional connection. Pregnancy risk and the danger of STIs are additional factors that demand awareness and care. The secret is to employ caution and physical and emotional protection. Finally, what makes the world such an exciting place is that everyone brings their own distinct experiences, attitudes, and views about intimacy to the table.

However, there is also a strong stigma against sexual expression and agency. What if having a hookup with someone consentively wasn't always bad? What if infrequent sexual activity didn't have to ruin your mental health? What if I told you that it might even be beneficial for your mental health?

The Advantages of Dating

In a recent survey, 72% of participants reported having at least one casual hookup, with men reporting an average of 10 and women reporting an average of 7. According to a second survey, persons today are more likely than they were in the 1988–1996 study to engage in casual sex with an unplanned date or a friend. Despite the fact that many people engage in casual sex, whether it be through one-night encounters, friends with benefits, or occasionally having sex with a platonic friend, there is still a stigma attached to it, including the widespread misconception that it is unhealthy.

I talked to a few advocates of casual sex to get their opinions on how the practice helps them and how they make sure it stays just that—casual.

Desirea, 24, offers personal and professional perspectives on casual sex.

"Exploring your sexuality should be joyful. I adore how it reduces my stress and improves my attitude. Exploring my alternatives and seeing what happens is something I really enjoy doing. It allows me to determine what I like and don't like. "With the correct reason and no strings attached, with someone you feel comfortable with, you can walk away feeling amazing and confident — without having to put your heart on the line," she continues.

Henry, 27

Desirea and Henry both think that having sex may improve one's attitude and teach one new things. He claims, "I believe that people are inherently quite sexual, and that having sex is a really positive and healthy approach to get to know yourself. Sexual activity benefits mental health. It eases tension and makes casual sex enjoyable! It's similar to having a rented automobile, he explains. It's something fresh and enjoyable, but there is also accountability.

By the way, only 20-somethings engage in casual sex.

Rae, 40

Rae finds casual sex to be a form of self-care and has been engaging in it for "a long time." "Sex outside of partnerships is simply a fundamental part of self-care," she says, "as someone who feels that both physical touch with others and orgasms are essential components of overall health."

She also offers some excellent suggestions for keeping things simple. It actually doesn't get complicated, in my opinion, if you approach a sexual scenario by viewing it as a playful interchange between consenting people. It's rather simple if the act becomes motivated by bodily rather than emotional desire. It's not necessary to have high expectations for sex, and getting rid of all the "Where is this going?" questions really makes it more enjoyable.

a therapist's perspective

A professional's perspective on the subject is offered by Talkspace counselor Rachel O'Neill, Ph.D., who agrees that casual sex can definitely be beneficial to mental health.

According to Dr. O'Neill, "generally speaking, healthy sexual engagement can have a lot of positive implications inside the individual's life." For instance, having sex may prevent mental health problems like stress and worry. Casual sex can open up the brain's pleasure pathways because it's thrilling and novel. A momentary high is produced by these pathways.

So what about that brand-new, thrilling metaphor Henry used for a rental car? It is logical.

Know the warnings. Test your mental health for free here.

The Study of Casual Sexting

There are more scientific justifications for why casual sex is healthy, in addition to the novelty aspect that makes it feel exciting.

Scientific research has shown that orgasms and sexual activity release a variety of hormones that are good for the mind. The "love hormone," oxytocin, is notably released after orgasm and physical contact. It reduces tension and anxiety while also fostering a sense of camaraderie and trust. Dopamine is also released, which activates the brain's "reward center." Dopamine, to put it simply, gives us a wonderful feeling and keeps us wanting more.

All things considered, casual sex isn't necessarily appropriate for all people.

According to Dr. Rachel O'Neill, "Everyone has their own distinct ideas and ideals around sex, which is absolutely great." "Perhaps casual sex isn't suited for you if you're the kind of person who genuinely values closeness and sees sex as something that happens when a relationship develops. However, it doesn't preclude you from experimenting with your sexuality to see if you can't discover a form of causal sexual connection that suits you.

You shouldn't feel guilty or embarrassed about your decision to engage in casual sex because it's a personal choice. There are some serious problems that should be handled by a mental health professional, like sexual addiction and compulsion.

Casual sex, however, does not automatically label you as a "slut" or a "men whore" in the appropriate situations. You become someone who is in control of their sexuality and who enjoys fulfilling their own desires.

Have fun and stay safe.

Always use condoms (you knew that, right?) and safeguard your emotional wellbeing by being open and honest in your communication. Be honest and practice making requests both in and out of bed.

And hey, there's always masturbation if it turns out that casual sex like in phim sex hd isn't for you. pornsexzone.com